Former 7s rep Isikeli Basiyalo to debut for Drua while Kuruvoli is on the bench

Former 7s rep Isikeli Basiyalo to debut for Drua while Kuruvoli is on the bench

By Alipate Narawa

08/04/2026

Quite a few changes have been made to the starting lineup of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, with former Fiji Airways Men's 7s rep Isikeli Basiyalo making his debut on the wing while Simione Kuruvoli is on the bench.

Coach Glen Jackson has stuck with his trusted front row of Haereiti Hetet, Zuriel Togiatama and Mesake Doge.

Co-captain Isoa Nasilasila pairs up with Smoking Joe Tamani in the locks.

Etonia Waqa and Motikiai Murray are in the second row with Elia Canakaivata at No. 8.

Issak Fines-Leleiwasa partners up with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula in the halves, while Iosefo Namoce pairs up with returning co-captain Tuidraki Samusamuvodre in the midfield.

The back three are Ilaisa Droasese on the left wing, Basiyalo on the right, with Isikeli Rabitu at fullback.

On the bench for the forwards are Mesulame Dolokoto, Emosi Tuqiri, Samuela Tawake, Mesake Vocevoce, Kitione Salawa, and Vilive Miramira.

Kuruvoli and Manasa Mataele will provide cover for the backs.

The Fijian Drua play the Force at 4.35pm this Saturday at The Fortress, Lautoka.

In other games, the Highlanders will meet the Brumbies at 7.05pm Friday, Moana Pasifika host the Chiefs in Tonga at 2.05pm Saturday, the Hurricanes will face the Blues at 7.05pm, while the Reds play the Crusaders at 9.35pm.